1919 Influenza Epidemic

The Red Cross suppoting The Nation in 1918 The year 1918 saw 135 cases admitted into Badsley Moor Hospital due to an Influenza epidemic that would sweep the nation. An extremely fatal type of Influenza first struck in Rotherham in June and July and again in November and slowed down by the end of December. Many people were nursed in their own homes, not seeking medical help possibly because of worries over the doctors medical bill. The Town had a total of 43 deaths through Influenza of which only 6 occurred in the hospital. The illness seemed to be highest amongst persons between the ages of 20 to 40. Influenza affected pregnant women badly, often resulting in miscarriage or early labour with the sad consequence of still born babies. The whole of the 23 staff including Dr. Robinson were all affected by the disease all having to be off work for a 10 day period. The shortage of medical staff caused problems and at times the support of the Red Cross was needed. Twelve inquests had been held in Rotherham on bodies of people who had Influenza, but owing to the fact that a difficulty in obtaining medical attendance these took time to be completed.

The town was already short of qualified medical workers due to many of them being on active service in the Army. Influenza found easy victims in the many overcrowded houses, which was common at the time. The families of the dead had to wait several days to bury the corpse as there were a limited number of undertakers due to the war. More women than men were affected by the Influenza, the majority of them being housewives. Many women often denied themselves food, giving their husbands or children extra.